The next day, Matthew and Judas entered the dimly lit holding cell, the air thick with tension. Stephen slumped against the wall, his eyes sunken, and his skin pale.Matthew's gaze filled with concern, while Judas's eyes softened with empathy.Judas approached Stephen, his voice gentle. "Stephen, did you take an oath with Smith?"Stephen's head jerked up, his eyes darting between Matthew and Judas. His voice barely above a whisper, he asked, "What do you mean?"Judas's expression turned understanding. "We know Smith's tactics. Did he make you swear loyalty, perhaps under duress?"Stephen's gaze dropped, his shoulders trembling.Matthew stepped forward, his tone reassuring. "We're here to help, Stephen. The truth will set you free."Stephen's eyes flickered, a glimmer of hope sparking within.Judas's voice remained soft. "Tell us, Stephen. What holds you back from speaking out?"Stephen's chest heaved, his words barely audible. "I...I don't know if I can trust you."Matthew and Judas e
Stephen's voice trembled, his words laced with desperation. "I am not trash," he gasped, grasping for air.Judas's eyes narrowed, his tone cold. "Stephen, why do you want to be treated like this before providing the necessary information?"Stephen's eyes darted around the room, pleading for mercy.Just then, Matthew intervened. "Judas, I'll be back in a few minutes," he said, his deep voice calm.With a nod, Matthew turned and left the room, leaving Judas and Stephen alone in the tense silence.Judas's voice was cool and calculated as he leaned in, his piercing eyes fixed intently on Stephen's trembling form. The dim lighting in the room seemed to amplify the tension between them. "Stephen, now that Matthew's gone, I suggest you cooperate," Judas said, his tone dripping with persuasion. "I promised to release you once you provide the information I need."Stephen's gaze faltered, fear creeping into his eyes like a thief in the night. His shoulders sagged under the weight of Judas's sta
Tyler's hand released the phone, the device landing softly on the polished conference table. He turned to his team, his eyes locking onto each member, signaling the start of a critical discussion.His team instinctively leaned in, their faces set with determination, as they gathered around the table to ponder their next strategic move."What should be our next line of decision?" Tyler asked, his voice clear and authoritative.Sanya, with her sharp analytical mind, spoke up first. "What we have to do now is hear what Matthew has for us, I mean our request," she suggested.Her words sparked a thoughtful silence, as the team considered the implications of Matthew's potential response.The conference room, once a hub of lively chatter, was now a space of focused contemplation.The team's anticipation was palpable, their collective energy directed toward finding the best course of action.Tyler's gaze swept the room, inviting further discussion, as the team began to weigh their options."T
Judas beamed with pride, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Oh, I said that, and here he is," he said, nodding toward Tyler."I deserve some accolades," Judas declared, his eyes sparkling with triumph.Matthew's nervous laughter echoed through the room. "Yeah, you really deserve that," he said, his voice trembling slightly.As Tyler approached, Matthew's anxiety spiked, but he summoned courage and stood tall."Good evening, Tyler," Matthew and Judas chimed in unison, their voices steady.Tyler's imposing figure commanded attention, his piercing gaze scanning the room."Good evening, gentlemen," Tyler replied, his deep voice calm and authoritative.With a subtle gesture, he took his seat, his presence radiating an aura of power.The room fell silent, awaiting Tyler's next move, as Matthew and Judas exchanged a tense glance.Judas's grin had faded, replaced by a cautious expression, while Matthew's eyes remained fixed on Tyler."Good evening, Matthew and Judas," Tyler replied, his v
"Yes, Smith can be smart and dangerous at the same time," Matthew said, his voice low and determined. "We thought to give it a quick shot before we would be shot."Tyler's eyes widened in surprise. "Wow, how did you find out he was sent to spy on you?" he asked, his tone laced with curiosity.Matthew's expression turned grim. "We've been monitoring his movements. His questions were too pointed, too calculated. It didn't take long to figure out his true intentions."Tyler nodded thoughtfully. "I'm glad you caught on. Smith's not someone to underestimate."Matthew's jaw clenched. "We won't let our guard down again.""I've always seen him around with Smith and knew he was Smith's tool," Matthew said. "Judas and I were having fun at the guest house near my place when I noticed that guy kept his eyes glued on me. As he left, we followed him, tricked him into the car, and took him to Judas' house."Tyler's eyes widened in surprise. "Wow, Smith must really be watching you closely."Judas smi
Judas nodded thoughtfully, his eyes locked onto Tyler's. "We'll definitely further our investigation," he said. "We'll need to dig deeper before we draw any conclusions."Tyler's expression was resolute, his voice firm. "My team and I will reach out to you as soon as we have more details," he assured.Matthew's gaze remained fixed on Tyler, anticipation etched on his face. "We'll be expecting your update," he said.Tyler stood from his chair, his movements fluid. "Yes, shortly," he confirmed.As Tyler rose, the others followed suit, the meeting drawing to a close. The tension in the room dissipated slightly.Judas extended his hand, his handshake firm. "We appreciate your cooperation, Tyler."Tyler's handshake matched Judas', his smile professional. "We'll work together to uncover the truth."Matthew's eyes lingered on Tyler's face, searching for any hidden motives.Judas and Matthew watched as Tyler and his team disappeared from view, their footsteps echoing down the corridor.Judas
STELLA POV I swiftly rushed to the bedroom, my heart pounding in my chest. I gently closed the door behind me, ensuring it was securely shut. I leaned against the door, listening intently for any sign of Kenna's movements.I had hidden my baby in the closet, wrapped snugly in a blanket, hoping she would remain quiet.I heard Kenna's maniacal laughter from outside the room, sending shivers down my spine."Come outside, I know the baby is there with you!" she taunted, her voice dripping with malice.Her footsteps echoed outside the door.She was trying to provoke me.I held my breath.Frozen.My baby stirred.I gently placed my hand over her mouth."Shh, little one," I whispered.Kenna's laughter grew louder.More menacing."Stella you cant hide forever".I trembled.Fear clawed at my heart.What if Kenna found us?What if Bryan was with her?The doorknob creaked.My grip on my baby tightened."Open the door Stella!"Kenna's demand sent panic through me."The baby isn't here with me,"
Judas entered the room, finding Stephen and Matthew locked in a heated discussion. Their raised voices and tense body language indicated a contentious debate, but Judas didn't hesitate. He had a purpose."Stephen, I hope I'm not wearing out my welcome with all these questions," Judas said, approaching him.Stephen's expression darkened, his frustration boiling over. "Honestly, I'm sick of your questions!" he exclaimed, slamming his fist on the table. "Can't you see we're busy? I don't have time for another inquiry. Just leave me alone!"Matthew shot Judas an apologetic glance, sensing the tension.Judas, however, remained composed. "I understand your frustration, Stephen, but I must press on. My questions are crucial.""No, boy, you can't leave that easily," Judas said with a chuckle. "You should know by now that you can't escape unless I permit it."Stephen's eyes flashed with anger."You still have unfinished business here," Judas continued. "Don't you recall your task?"Stephen's v